The France 2030 initiative is driving a profound transformation in the building construction and renovation sectors. Its ambition? To accelerate the ecological transition while strengthening innovation. For building professionals (architects, construction economists, general contractors) and project owners (local authorities, developers), achieving these objectives means adopting new tools adapted to environmental and energy requirements. What are the tools for achieving the France 2030 objectives in the building sector (construction and renovation)?
1. Energy modeling and simulation software: optimizing building design
To achieve France's 2030 targets for the building sector, professionals can rely on modeling software such asBIM (Building Information Modeling). This software allows data to be centralized, energy performance to be simulated, and building design to be optimized. Thanks to BIM, stakeholders can collaborate effectively, reducing design errors and improving the sustainability of the project.
Two other powerful tools for dynamic thermal simulation arePleiadesandClimaWin. These software programs evaluate the energy performance of a building undergoing renovation and identify potential energy savings. This enables architects and construction economists to design optimal thermal solutions that meet France's 2030 ecological transition standards.
Resources:
BIM (Building Information Modeling)
Several BIM software programs are available depending on specific needs (such as Revit, ArchiCAD, or Allplan). They are available for purchase and can be downloaded from their official websites:
- Revit:https://www.autodesk.fr/products/revit/overview
- ArchiCAD:https://www.graphisoft.com/
- Allplan:https://www.allplan.com/fr/
Pleiades and ClimaWin
Pleiades: Dynamic thermal simulation software developed by Izuba Energies. Information and downloads here:https://www.izuba.fr/pleiades/
ClimaWin: Software specializing in thermal simulation for energy renovation, available at:https://www.climawin.fr/
2. Carbon footprint and environmental impact assessment tools: essential for sustainability
Next, to assess the environmental impact of buildings, several software programs such asELODIE(developed by the CSTB) are essential. ELODIE enables a comprehensive analysis of a building's carbon footprint throughout its life cycle. It takes into account energy consumption, CO₂ emissions, and the type of materials used. This tool is particularly useful for local authorities and general contractors seeking to minimize their environmental impact and comply with France 2030 objectives.
To support project owners in the "France 2030" plan, theCaGBC Carbon Calculatortool calculates a project's carbon emissions and guides choices toward low-carbon solutions. By using tools to assess the carbon impact of their projects, building stakeholders can make more environmentally friendly choices.
Resources:
ELODIE (CSTB)
- ELODIE: Environmental assessment tool provided by the Scientific and Technical Center for Building (CSTB). Information and access:https://batiment.cstb.fr/fr/solutions/elodie/
CaGBC Carbon Calculator
- CaGBC Carbon Calculator: This Canadian tool, offered by the Canada Green Building Council, can also be adapted for projects in France. Information available here:https://www.cagbc.org/
3. Databases and guides for choosing sustainable materials: towards responsible construction
To meet sustainability criteria, the choice of materials is crucial. TheINIES database, which compiles environmental and health data sheets for construction materials, is a valuable resource for architects. It helps them choose materials with low environmental impact, in line with France 2030 requirements.
In addition, theB@D(short supply chain building)databaseoffers sustainable materials sourced from local supply chains, thereby reducing the carbon footprint of projects. The use of sustainable, locally sourced materials not only supports the circular economy, but also reduces the environmental impact of construction projects. These two complementary tools enable professionals to choose solutions that are in line with France's 2030 plan for the building sector.
Resources:
INIES
- INIES: The official French database of environmental and health characteristics of construction products. It is available free of charge online:https://www.base-inies.fr/
B@D Base (Short-Circuit Building)
- B@D database: This database for local building materials can be accessed here:https://www.basededonneesbad.fr/
4. Financing and support mechanisms: assistance for professionals and communities
In order to promote energy-efficient renovation and achieve France's 2030 targets, financing mechanisms are available. For example,MaPrimeRénov’, managed by ANAH (Agence Nationale de l’Habitat), provides financial support for energy-efficient renovation of residential buildings. This assistance is available to individuals, condominiums, and landlords, making renovation work more affordable for everyone.
Regional initiatives, such asÉnergie Sprongin Île-de-France, offer subsidies for ambitious energy renovations, particularly for local authorities and property developers. This financial assistance facilitates renovation projects, which are essential for reducing the carbon footprint of the real estate sector.
Resources:
MaPrimeRénov’ (ANAH)
- MaPrimeRénov’:Financial assistance from the National Housing Agency for energy-efficient renovations, intended for homeowners and co-owners. All information on eligibility and application requirements can be found here:https://www.maprimerenov.gouv.fr/
Sprong Energy (Île-de-France)
- Sprong Energy: Program for ambitious energy renovations in Île-de-France, operated by the CSTB and supported by several public actors. More information:https://www.cstb.fr/fr/orhttps://www.energiesprong.fr/
5. Specific France 2030 tools for project owners: solutions dedicated to local authorities
Local authorities and developers can also rely on dedicated tools to achieve the objectives of the France 2030 plan in the construction and renovation of buildings. For example, theCoachCopro platform, developed by the Paris Climate Agency, supports managers and co-owners in their energy renovation projects. This service offers personalized monitoring, advice on financing, and access to a network of professionals.
In addition, local authorities investing in sustainable urban projects can use theEcoQuartier platform. This tool provides resources and enables projects to be assessed according to sustainability criteria, a priority for achieving France's 2030 objectives.
Resources:
CoachCopro (Paris Climate Agency)
- CoachCopro: Platform to support condominiums in energy renovation projects. Available to co-owners and professionals, accessible at:https://www.coachcopro.com/
Eco-neighborhood
- EcoQuartier: Support platform for sustainable urban projects, accessible via the Ministry of Ecological Transition website:https://www.ecoquartiers.logement.gouv.fr/
6. Training and technical support: strengthening skills for a successful transition
Finally, to promote the adoption of sustainable practices, training programs such asPROFEELaim to train building professionals in best practices for energy-efficient renovation. These training courses are funded by institutional partners and help tradespeople adopt new environmental standards.
Regional labels, such asBâtiments Durables Méditerranéens (BDM)andBâtiment Durable Francilien (BDF), also enable professionals to follow a reference framework for projects that comply with France 2030's ecological requirements.
Resources:
PROFEEL Program
- PROFEEL: Training program for building professionals aimed at improving skills in energy renovation and sustainable construction. Information and training modules:https://programmeprofeel.fr/
Mediterranean Sustainable Buildings (BDM) and Sustainable Buildings in the Paris Region (BDF)
- BDM: Label for sustainable construction in the Mediterranean region, managed by EnvirobatBDM. More information here:https://www.envirobatbdm.eu/
- BDF: Paris Region label for sustainable building projects. Access information here:https://www.envirobatidf.org/
In conclusion, achieving France's 2030 targets requires tools tailored to the building sector and financial and technical support from industry players. Energy modeling software, sustainable materials databases, renovation assistance, and specialized training enable building professionals and local authorities to comply with new environmental standards. Thanks to these tools and measures, the building sector is better equipped to meet environmental challenges and ensure a successful ecological transition.
